4 resolutions for a happier new year

Beginning a new year is a great time to make changes in your life, and start habits that help you be happier. These are some simple New Year's resolutions that can help help improve your levels of happiness.

• It might sound counterintuitive, but giving to other people is a great way to gain purpose and boost happiness in your own life.
• As a New Year's resolution, commit to giving more to other people.
• Become part of a volunteer organization, or set aside some of your pay cheque each month to donate to charity.
• Even if you don't have time or money to give, focus on giving compliments to the people around you. Doing so can help improve the way you feel.

• Studies have proven that sleep is important for many things, including mood, health and much more.
• In the new year, commit to getting those important eight hours a night.
• Getting more sleep will give you more energy to enjoy the hours that you are awake.
• Consider going to bed one hour earlier than usual every night. You could end up feeling more alert and able during the day.

• It's impossible to feel happy if you don't have time to reflect on what's happening in your life and what you feel happy about.
• Set some time aside each week that is simply for you.
• Go to a spa, go on a long walk or go see a movie on your own.
• By spending time alone, you can clear your thoughts and re-energize.
• It can also help you spend more quality time with the people you love, rather than simply more time where you're distracted, stressed or unhappy.

• Technology is so important in our everyday lives. But being connected to the web too much keeps us from looking around and appreciating what's really there.
• Set some rules about when people in your family can be on their social media pages or mobile devices.
• You can choose to prohibit cell phones at the dinner table, or outlaw social media any time in the afternoon.
• Whatever your rule, implement it with your whole family or household and you'll all be more present with one another.

The new year is an excellent time to make promises to yourself and your family about how you'll lead your life. Resolve to spend more quality time with the people around you, and set time aside for yourself. It could help you lead a happier life in the coming year.